Data Scientist vs. consultant: What Are the Differences?

Data scientists and consultants are both professionals who provide services to organizations. Data scientists use data to help organizations make better decisions, while consultants provide advice and recommendations. Both roles require strong analytical and communication skills. In this article, we compare and contrast data scientists and consultants, and we provide information on what you can do to pursue each career.

What is a Data Scientist?

Data Scientists analyze and interpret complex data sets to identify trends, patterns and relationships. They use their findings to help organizations make better business decisions. Data Scientists typically have a background in computer science, statistics and mathematics. They use their technical skills to clean, organize and transform data into a format that’s suitable for analysis. They then use their analytical skills to identify trends and relationships. Data Scientists present their findings to clients or decision-makers in the form of reports, visualizations or presentations.

What is a Consultant?

Consultants are hired by organizations to provide expert advice in a specific area. They are usually brought in to solve a specific problem or help with a specific project. Consultants typically have a lot of experience in their field and are able to provide valuable insights and recommendations. They often work with organizations on a short-term basis, although some consultants may be hired for longer periods of time. Consultants typically work independently, although they may collaborate with other consultants or with the organization’s employees.

Data Scientist vs. Consultant

Here are the main differences between a data scientist and a consultant.

Job Duties

A data scientist performs a variety of tasks, including research, analysis and experimentation. They use the results of their work to develop theories about how to improve business operations. Data scientists often work alone or with small teams. A consultant works for a client, providing advice on a particular subject. Their job duties depend on the needs of their client and the nature of the project. Typically, a consultant works with clients in person or over extended phone conferences.

Job Requirements

Data scientists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics or another related field. However, many data scientists have a master’s degree or even a PhD. Data scientists also need to be proficient in programming languages like Python and R. They should also be familiar with statistical analysis software, such as SAS and SPSS. Additionally, data scientists should have strong problem-solving skills and be able to work independently.

Consultants typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics or another related field. However, many consultants have a master’s degree or even a PhD. Consultants also need to be proficient in project management software, such as Microsoft Project. They should also be familiar with statistical analysis software, such as SAS and SPSS. Additionally, consultants should have strong problem-solving skills and be able to work independently.

Work Environment

Data scientists and consultants work in different environments. Data scientists typically work for companies or organizations that need data analysis to improve their business processes. They may also work as independent contractors, providing services to multiple clients.

Consultants usually work for consulting firms, where they provide services to a variety of clients. Consulting firms often have teams of consultants who specialize in different areas, such as marketing or finance. Consultants can also be self-employed, working independently from other people.

Skills

Both data scientists and consultants need to have excellent analytical skills. Data scientists use their analytical skills to examine data sets, identify trends and develop models that explain the data. Consultants also need to be able to analyze data, but they use this skill to understand a client’s business, identify problems and recommend solutions.

Data scientists also need to have strong technical skills. They need to be able to work with various programming languages, software tools and databases. Consultants do not need to have as strong of technical skills because they are not typically working with code or developing software applications. However, they should be familiar with technology so they can understand their clients’ needs and make recommendations about which technology solutions would be most beneficial.

Communication skills are important for both data scientists and consultants. Data scientists need to be able to communicate their findings to colleagues and clients who may not have a background in data analysis. Consultants need to be able to clearly explain their recommendations to clients and help them understand how the proposed solution will address their specific needs.

Salary

Data scientists earn an average salary of $118,822 per year, while consultants earn an average salary of $84,847 per year. The average salary for both positions may vary depending on the industry in which you work, your level of experience and your location.